Beyond the Hype: Using Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth (What TikTok Won’t Tell You)

#RosemaryOil has over 3 billion views on TikTok.

Everywhere you look, someone is massaging rosemary oil into their scalp and showing off luscious locks a few weeks later. It’s tempting. It’s trending. And if you’re experiencing hair loss or thinning, it might feel like you’ve just discovered a miracle cure.

But is rosemary oil really that good? And more importantly, is it backed by more than just viral videos?

Let’s separate the science from the scroll. Here’s what you need to know before you jump on the rosemary bandwagon.

The Truth: Rosemary Does Support Hair Growth

Despite the hype, rosemary oil isn’t just a social media trend. It has centuries of traditional use behind it – and now, modern studies are backing up what ancient herbalists always knew.

In a 2015 clinical trial, rosemary oil was compared to 2% minoxidil (the active ingredient in Rogaine) for treating androgenetic alopecia. After six months, both groups experienced significant hair regrowth – and the rosemary group reported fewer side effects, like scalp itching.

Other research has shown rosemary may:

• Improve circulation to the scalp
  
  
• Soothe inflammation that contributes to follicle stress
  
  
• Help reduce DHT levels (a hormone that causes hair thinning in men and women)
  
  

The bottom line? Rosemary oil isn’t magic. But it works – slowly, gently, and naturally.

The Myths: What TikTok Gets Wrong

Let’s take a look at a few common misconceptions making the rounds online:

Myth 1: "It works overnight"

Hair grows in cycles, and no oil or serum is going to transform your scalp in a week. Give it at least 3-6 months to see meaningful changes. That’s how long it takes follicles to transition into a new growth phase.

Myth 2: "The more you use, the better"

More oil doesn’t mean more growth. In fact, using essential oils undiluted can irritate your scalp. Stick to a few drops diluted in a carrier oil – or better yet, use a formulated shampoo or haircare product that incorporates rosemary in the right concentration.

Myth 3: "It works for everyone"

Rosemary can support a healthy scalp and stimulate dormant follicles. But it won’t regrow hair from follicles that are permanently damaged or gone. And if your hair loss is linked to a medical condition, speak to a dermatologist first.

So... How Should You Actually Use It?

Here’s how to get rosemary working for your hair – minus the mess and misinformation.

1. Use a Rosemary-Infused Shampoo

Our Buchu & Rosemary Shampoo Blok makes it easy. With no plastic, no parabens, and no harsh chemicals, this solid shampoo bar blends rosemary with anti-inflammatory South African buchu oil. It cleanses, stimulates, and supports your scalp – all in one beautiful bar.

New to shampoo bars? Our how-to guide walks you through every step.

2. Try Scalp Massage with Rosemary Oil

If you enjoy DIY, mix a few drops of rosemary essential oil into a carrier oil like jojoba, and massage it into your scalp for 5 minutes. Leave it on for 30 minutes or overnight, then rinse with a gentle cleanser.

3. Soothe Your Scalp Post-Wash

Dry, irritated scalp? Lock in moisture and botanical benefits with our Buchu & Rosemary Moisturising Blok. It's a solid cream bar infused with rosemary that helps restore your scalp's natural balance.

4. Be Consistent

Real growth takes time. Make rosemary a part of your weekly rhythm, not a one-off experiment. Document your progress, and celebrate the little victories – like those first baby hairs appearing.

Real Plant Power (No Filters Needed)

Yes, rosemary oil is having a moment. But behind the buzz lies a truth that’s beautifully simple: nature works best when it’s given time, space, and consistency.

So if you’re looking for a hair growth remedy that respects your body and your skin, rosemary might be the slow, steady answer you’ve been looking for.

We’re here to help you do it right.

References

1. Panahi Y, et al. (2015). Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial. Skinmed, 13(1), 15-21.

2. Murata K, et al. (2013). Promotion of hair growth by Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract. Phytotherapy Research, 27(2), 212-217.

3. Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth: Does It Work?

4. Women’s Health. (2024). What Dermatologists Say About Using Rosemary for Thinning Hair.

5. Healthline. (2022). Rosemary Oil for Hair: Growth, Uses, and Benefits.